File Photo: Ahmed Fathi in Pyramids FC jersey challenges for the ball in a match against El Dakhleya on 14 April, 2024. Photo courtesy of Ahmed Fathi Facebii Page.
Fathi concluded his playing days with Pyramids FC after helping the team claim their first-ever trophy in winning the 2023/2024 Egypt Cup earlier this month.
Born in Benha on 10 November 1984, Fathi began his professional career at the Suez Canal side Ismaily in 2001.
Over five seasons with the Dervishes, he made 91 appearances, scoring 11 goals and providing five assists.
Fathi won the Egyptian League title with Ismaili in the 2001/2002 season.
Fathi in Ismaili jersey
Fathi played right-back, but also filled in as left-back, stopper and in the midfield, earning the nickname of the Joker.
In 2007, he ventured into European football, joining Sheffield United on a three-and-a-half-year deal.
Despite debuting in a 2–1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur, Fathi struggled to secure a regular spot, making just three appearances during his brief stint in England.
In September 2007, Fathi returned to Egypt to join Ahly for £675,000, beginning an era of success and trophies with the club.
With the Red Devils, he won 17 domestic and continental titles, including nine Egyptian Premier League crowns and three African Champions League trophies.
Fathi in Ahly jersey
He scored decisive goals, including a crucial goal in 2009 against his Talae El-Geish in the campaign to win the Egyptian League and the winner in the 2017 Egypt Cup final against Masry.
In 13 seasons with the Red Devils, Fathi netted 24 goals in 338 appearances across all competitions.
The veteran defender also had short loan stints with Kuwait’s Kazma SC in 2007/08 and English side Hull City in 2013.
In the 2014/15 season, Fathi joined Qatar's Umm Salal, before making his return to Ahly in 2015.
In 2020, after failing to agree on a contract renewal with Ahly, Fathi signed for Pyramids FC on a free transfer.
A Pharaoh
On the international stage, Fathi earned over 100 caps for Egypt and was one of the Pharaoh's skippers.
He was a vital part of the squad that won three consecutive Africa Cup of Nations titles in 2006, 2008, and 2010.
He also represented Egypt in the 2012 London Olympics and the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
During an interview on MBC Masr, Fathi reflected on his career.
"It has been an incredible journey filled with unforgettable moments. I am grateful for the opportunity to play the sport I love at the highest level," he said.
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